6 chapters across the catalog
George Papandreou, US-EU Trade Relations and Economic Stability
The discussion touches on the legacy of former Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou and the current state of the Greek economy, which faces 50% youth unemployment. Nicholas Burns emphasizes that the European Union remains the largest trade partner and investor for the United States, meaning instability in the Eurozone directly impacts American financial markets.
Global Economic Turmoil, Saudi-Russian Oil Price War
Columnist Tom Friedman and financial analysts suggest that Saudi Arabia is intentionally lowering oil prices to damage the Russian economy in coordination with US interests. This market instability is compounded by high youth unemployment in the EU, particularly among unskilled immigrants in Spain and Greece. Some analysts argue that inflation or even military conflict may be the only ways to resolve the current European economic stagnation.
Greece continues to face civil unrest as the government crackdowns on the Golden Dawn party, arresting leaders and cutting off state funding following the murder of an anti-fascist rapper. Youth unemployment in Italy and Spain remains near 40%, leading to fears of a broader European collapse. The militarization of police forces is noted as a response to potential revolutionary activity.
European Student Protests, Education Cuts and Youth Unemployment
Teachers and students in Rome are protesting significant cuts to the Italian education budget and a bill that would allow schools to seek private funding. With youth unemployment in Italy at 35%, the hosts suggest students are protesting to stay in the education system longer to avoid a jobless market. Similar unrest is noted in the UK and Quebec regarding tuition hikes and the commercialization of universities.
A Harvard University survey of young Americans' attitudes toward politics revealed that creating jobs and lowering unemployment are top priorities. Conversely, combating climate change ranked last on the list of concerns for the demographic. Protecting individual liberties and addressing Social Security were found to be of moderate importance to the respondents.
The hosts theorize that the current economic collapse in Greece is a setup to trigger a revolution. They suggest the Greeks will eventually nationalize the assets currently being sold to China, effectively "screwing" the Chinese investors and resetting the government.
